Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

We know that the car restoration process can be intimidating. It’s vital that you can find someone you can trust to help you through the process. At Hilltoppers Speed Shop, we believe in total transparency. We have clear pricing strategies and active communication with each customer, no matter their location. Here are some of the questions other people have asked us in the past:

Are you able to determine the amount of work needed for my restoration project by looking at my car?

Not at all. We will not be fully aware of all the work needed on the car until it is entirely dismantled. There may be issues lurking beneath the surface due to climate and weather conditions, storage conditions, and driving conditions. We will need to inspect the car and its internal parts to get an accurate idea of the necessary work.

Will there be a return on my investment in this project?

When it comes to car restoration, there is a significant amount of misconception out there. People who decide to pursue this type of project are dedicated and willing to commit for the long haul. Car restorations are usually done because someone is passionate about a car and wants to add features to it, upgrade it, or make changes to turn it into their dream car. Restorations are beautiful projects, but their true value lies in their meaning to the owner.

How long will this whole process take?

The car restoration process is a commitment. People who choose to pursue a car restoration project are dedicated and passionate about the car and restoring it. The process is detailed and cannot be rushed, often taking a few years to complete. There may be unexpected problems encountered along the way and waits for parts or other things.

Does the whole restoration process need to be completed at once?

The restoration process can be lengthy; therefore many people choose to do it in phases. It is not uncommon for someone to decide to get the car drivable, then select to work on the exterior, and then to finish up with the interior. A restoration shop can help you decide on how to best utilize your time and finances for the project.

Is everything done in-house?

While we do try to handle every car restoration need in-house, there are a few things we’ve entrusted to our very reliable partners. Our trusted partners help out with a few restoration needs that we do not do in-house such as upholstery and engine rebuilding.

How do I know I’ve found the right shop?

Choosing the right shop for yourself is an essential step in the restoration process. It is critical to find a reputable shop that you can trust to get the job done efficiently and right. An excellent way to get an idea of a shop’s reputation is to speak to people who know of that shop. You can ask around at local car clubs or car shows. Getting an idea of someone else’s restoration experience can help you to select a shop with confidence.

How much of a down payment do I need to make?

Credible shops will expect a minimal down payment. Payments are collected on the vehicle as work progresses. We are both competitive and fair in our approach to pricing, please contact us with your project details for more information.

How much does the car restoration cost?

While this is a common question, it is difficult to predict the total cost of a restoration project. While we can take an educated guess at how much a project may cost, several factors impact the cost of a car restoration project. There may be parts that need to be ordered, and there may also be issues that arise as the car is dismantled. We can help you determine the aspects that will be required for your project. Here are some of the elements to consider during a car restoration project: